I am 66, I have worked for 50 years, and still am, without a day’s unemployment.

I have never claimed, or received, any other form of benefit, save for the current winter fuel allowance, and a paltry sum many years ago that was paid to my wife as family allowance, a result of which was that my tax code was adjusted to recoup it.

I have paid income tax all of my working life, indeed still do as a part-time working pensioner, to subsidise the funding of a wide range of support, hand-outs, and benefits now available, and now this wonderful society begrudges me the first freebie I have ever had – the opportunity to enjoy my free travel concession.

Without wishing to be controversial I could quickly name several payments that I would either cut, or completely withdraw, in order that this concession was affordable, as I am sure many of the recipients are in a similar position to myself.

I consider this concession just reward for a lifetime of considerable financial contribution to fund this “fairer society”.

Unfortunately, I will have to enjoy it while it lasts. If Mr Goodwill and his cohorts win the next election, which seems likely, then no doubt one of the casualties of the “public spending cuts” will be the funding of over 60s’ free travel concession.

Frank Dore

Maple Drive

Scarborough